In anticipation of the upcoming Sharadiya Durga Puja, all government and private schools and colleges across the country are set to observe an extended holiday. Students may enjoy a continuous 12-day break starting from 26 September. Since 26 and 27 September fall on the weekend (Friday and Saturday), students effectively gain an extra two days of leisure.

According to the 2025 academic calendar, holidays are scheduled from 28 September (Sunday) to 7 October (Tuesday) to observe multiple festivals including Durga Puja, Fateha-i-Yaz Daham, Prabarana Purnima, and Shri Shri Lakshmi Puja.

Because the two days preceding 28 September are weekend holidays, students will benefit from a long, uninterrupted break. As per the educational calendar:

• 2 October – Bijaya Dashami
• 4 October – Fateha-i-Yaz Daham
• 5 October – Prabarana Purnima
• 6 October – Shri Shri Lakshmi Puja (optional holiday, but observed in most institutions)

The latest circular from the Secondary and Higher Education Division of the Ministry of Education states that all secondary and higher secondary institutions must follow the approved holiday schedule.

Thus, Sharadiya Durga Puja offers the potential for a lengthy holiday for students. However, university holidays will be determined according to the decisions of their respective syndicate meetings, as these institutions are autonomous.

Meanwhile, government offices will also enjoy a four-day continuous holiday. Following the Durga Puja break on 1 and 2 October, the weekend on 3 and 4 October allows government employees to have an uninterrupted leave period.

Holiday Schedule Overview: Durga Puja 2025

This festive calendar ensures students and public employees can enjoy a prolonged break during one of the most celebrated cultural periods of the year.